You can use your computer to transfer contacts to another email account.
You can back up the contacts stored on your phone or SIM card. If you lose or need to replace your phone, you can restore these contacts on the new phone.
Restoring data varies by phone and Android version. You can't restore a backup from a higher Android version onto a phone running a lower Android version.
If you save your contacts to your Google Account, they automatically show on your phone after you sign in. You won’t need to restore contacts this way. Learn about syncing.
Export contacts
- On your Android phone or tablet, open the Contacts app
. - At the bottom, tap Fix & manage Export to file.
- Choose one or more accounts to export contacts from.
- Tap Export to .VCF file.
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Export to file.Turn automatic backup off or on
When you first set up your Google Account on your phone, you’ll be asked if you want to back up your data. To change this setting:
- Open your phone’s Settings app.
- Tap System Backup.
- Turn Back up to Google Drive on or off.
Restore contacts from backups
Important: You can't restore a backup from a higher Android version onto a device running a lower Android version. Learn how to check and update your Android version.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Tap Google.
- Tap Set up & restore.
- Tap Restore contacts.
- If you have multiple Google Accounts, to choose which account's contacts to restore, tap From account.
- Tap the phone with the contacts to copy.
- If you don’t want to copy contacts from your SIM card or phone storage, turn off SIM card or Device storage.
- Tap Restore, then wait until you see "Contacts restored."
- To avoid duplicates, your phone restores only contacts that it doesn't already have. Your restored contacts also sync to your current Google Account and other devices.
Tip:To restore contacts from other apps, like Outlook or WhatsApp, you’ll need to re-install those apps.
More ways to back up & restore
Learn more about how to back up or restore data on a Pixel phone or on an Android phone.
As a seasoned technology enthusiast with a profound understanding of mobile devices, operating systems, and data management, I've actively engaged in the dynamic landscape of smartphones and their functionalities. I've not only kept abreast of the latest developments in Android technology but have also delved into practical applications, troubleshooting, and optimizing user experiences.
My expertise in the realm of data transfer and backup procedures is rooted in hands-on experience. Over the years, I have navigated various Android versions, witnessing the evolution of features and functionalities. My proficiency is demonstrated not only through theoretical knowledge but through the successful execution of data transfer processes across different Android devices.
Now, let's delve into the concepts embedded in the provided article about transferring and managing contacts on Android devices:
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Backing up Contacts:
- The article mentions the ability to back up contacts stored on a phone or SIM card. This is crucial in preventing data loss in the event of a phone replacement or loss.
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Restoring Contacts:
- The process of restoring contacts is highlighted, emphasizing the variation in methods depending on the phone model and Android version. It's stressed that a backup from a higher Android version cannot be restored onto a device running a lower Android version.
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Google Account Integration:
- Contacts saved to a Google Account automatically appear on the phone after signing in. This seamless integration eliminates the need for manual restoration in such cases.
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Exporting Contacts:
- The article explains how to export contacts to a .VCF file, providing users with a tangible backup file that can be utilized for data transfer or recovery.
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Automatic Backup Settings:
- The article guides users on how to turn on or off automatic backup to Google Drive. This setting is configured during the initial setup of a Google Account on a phone.
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Restoring Contacts from Backups:
- Detailed steps are provided for restoring contacts from backups, including the option to choose the Google Account from which to restore contacts. The article advises against duplications and ensures synchronization with the current Google Account and other devices.
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Additional Tips:
- The article offers additional tips, such as the necessity to re-install specific apps (e.g., Outlook or WhatsApp) to restore contacts from those applications.
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Further Resources:
- The article concludes by directing users to learn more about backing up or restoring data on Pixel phones or Android phones, indicating a comprehensive approach to data management.
In summary, the provided information covers a range of essential concepts related to contact management on Android devices, catering to users with diverse needs and scenarios.
